The "apple of discord" is a symbolic expression derived from Greek mythology, which refers to a source of discord or conflict. According to the mythological story, Eris, the goddess of discord, was not invited to a wedding celebration attended by all the gods and goddesses, except her. In retaliation, she arrived uninvited and presented a golden apple to the guests. This apple was inscribed with the phrase "For the fairest," intending to provoke rivalry and competition among the goddesses.
As the apple was highly sought after, three goddesses claimed it as their own: Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. In order to settle the dispute, the gods appointed Paris, a Trojan prince, as the judge of their beauty contest. Each goddess attempted to bribe Paris, offering him various rewards in return for their victory. After careful consideration, Paris ultimately awarded the apple to Aphrodite, who had promised him the love of the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen of Troy.
This decision ultimately led to disastrous consequences, as Helen was already married to Menelaus, the king of Sparta, triggering the Trojan War. Therefore, the "apple of discord" represents an object or situation that initiates conflict or tension among individuals or groups. It highlights the destructive power of jealousy, rivalry, and disagreement, emphasizing how a seemingly insignificant dispute can lead to grave consequences.
